| Ciutadella de Menorca (picture by Peter Watts) |  |
Ciutadella de Menorca
Photographer Description of Ciutadella de Menorca
Panorama taken from a plaza in Ciutadella de Menorca. This picture shows a view over the center of the town and the long, narrow harbour and marina with a yellow Mallorca-Menorca ferry visible in the distance among the pleasure boats.Ciutadella de Menorca - Further Information
Ciutadella de Menorca is more commonly referred to simply as 'Cuitadella'. The town lies on the far west of Menorca and was the original capital of the island with a long and rich history. It is also an important entrance point to Menorca with a long, narrow harbour and marina, where daily ferry services depart for Mallorca.The history of Ciutadella de Menorca reaches back to it's foundation by the Carthaginians. For several hundred years it was occupied by the Moors until it was recaptured by the Spanish in the 12th century. In 1558, after an 8 day siege, Ciutadella was invaded by the Turks who took all survivors as slaves back to Turkey.
Ciutadella is full of various historic sights and attractions. Prime among them are the 14th century Ciutadella Cathedral and the 17th century Castell Sant Nicolas, a defensive castle now converted into an art gallery. The historic quarter, known as 'Es Born', is full of narrow medieval streets lined with churches, old houses and the odd palace. The area is also lined with numerous small cafes and restaurants.
Between 23rd - 24th June Ciutadella hosts the Festes de Sant Joan, the largest and most popular festival on the island, complete with various processions, horse racing and jousting, all aided by the consumption of pomada (a gin based drink). This is one of the highlights of the year and well worth attending.
Ciutadella de Menorca is naturally a major hub from which to explore the rest of the island. There are several popular beaches nearby with Cala Santandria and both within 5km drive. Only just over 12km south are Cap d'Artrutx, Cala en Bosc and Son Xoriguer.
Travel Directions and Getting There:
Ferry: From [[634,Alcudia]] on [[566,Mallorca]].
Flight: Menorca Airport, about 46km east of Ciutadella on the Me-14 and Me-1.
Raod: Ciutadella is 45km from Mahon and 23km from [[4030,El Mercadal]].
